While you don?t have to take advantage of the EAA?s Technical counselor program, it is highly recommended. The best part is it is free. Ok, it might cost you a lunch or a beer, money and time well spent, IMHO.
Here in the Charlotte, NC area we had one RV builder who had his project inspected multiple times by an EAA Technical Counselor while building his project. When the FAA DAR came to inspect his plane he reviewed the forms the TC?s filled out, the weight and balance, and the FAA paper work. Apparently he did nothing more than glance at the airplane.
As for the timing of the TC visit, I had my first one before I closed up one of the fuel tanks, the second one after closing one of the wings, and the third one after I disassembled my engine.
I will have one or both of them back when I finish up the fuselage, when I install the electrical system (Probably have them review the schematic before I start on it.), when I install the engine and before its first start, and again before I invite the DAR over.
This being my first plane, I am more than happy to have a knowledgeable pair of eyes critique my work.